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Altruism is a concept in psychology and philosophy that refers to selfless concern for the well-being of others. It is characterized by acting out of a desire to help others, without any expectation of reward or benefit to oneself. This behavior can manifest in various ways, from small acts of kindness to significant sacrifices.

The origins of altruism are debated among scientists and philosophers. Evolutionary explanations suggest that altruistic behaviors may have developed because they increase the survival and reproductive success of individuals who share genes with the altruist (kin selection), or because cooperative groups tend to be more successful than uncooperative ones (reciprocal altruism). Psychological theories often explore the motivations behind altruism, differentiating between true altruism (acting purely for the other's benefit) and more complex motivations such as empathy, guilt reduction, or social approval.

While some argue that genuine altruism, free from any self-serving motive, is rare or even impossible, others maintain that such selfless acts do exist. The study of altruism also intersects with ethics and moral philosophy, exploring its role in creating a just and compassionate society. Understanding altruism involves examining both the biological underpinnings and the psychological drivers of helping behavior.